For the past forty years, Eric Carle has been one of the biggest names in children’s literature, and for good reason. Ask any parents today what they remember best about their own childhoods and they are guaranteed to mention reading The Very Hungry Caterpillar, a classic that has topped best-of lists conducted by the New York Times, the Guardian, and the BBC. Since that book’s publication in 1969, Carle has helped youngsters everywhere discover time and again which bear heard what, why the ladybug is so grouchy, and how a cricket could possibly be “very quiet.” To honor his contribution to literature and imaginations across the globe, as well as his 83rd birthday, the Louisville Visual Art Association (LVAA) and the Louisville Free Public Library present an Eric Carle-themed June Art Buffet on Saturday, June 16.

The Art Buffet series features free family drop-in art workshops for all ages throughout the summer. This particular day will feature three levels of interaction for participants, which touch of all aspects of learning. First, a hands-on art project will allow attendees to create their own characters in the style of Eric Carle, using his now famous signature techniques. Next, the documentary Picture Writer will educate viewers on the collaging method that Carle has perfected since his career in writing and illustration began four decades ago. Finally, the Main Library’s “Storytime” at 2 p.m. will feature one of Carle’s beloved books, which will also be available to borrow. Members of the whole family won’t want to miss this opportunity to celebrate the life and work of this cultural icon.

Eric Carle’s Birthday Party and Art Buffet will be on June 16 from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. at the Main Library, located downtown at 301 York Street. Admission is free, and Whole Foods will be providing healthy snacks for all in attendance. The next Art Buffet will be on Saturday, August 11, and will feature the Squallis Puppeteers. For more information about the Eric Carle Birthday Party, contact the Communications and Membership Coordinator at (502)-896-2146, ext. 109, or at [email protected]. To access information about the LVAA’s or Louisville Free Public Library’s other events, visit www.louisvillevisualart.org or www.lfpl.org.

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When I was seven and my brother was eight, we both wrote to 'Where in the World is Carmen Sandiego?' for a free t-shirt. Two weeks later his arrived in the mail, signed by Carmen Sandiego herself, accompanied by an autographed picture of the cast, an official membership to the 'Gumshoe Club,' and a Rockapella casette tape. I got a postcard.